By LaKeshia N. Myers Wisconsin, we have a problem. A reading problem; according to Wisconsin Literacy, one in seven Wisconsin adults struggle with low literacy. Meaning they struggle to understand short, simple sentences and perform simple tasks. Adults with below basic literacy would have trouble filling out forms and following printed instructions (Wisconsin Literacy, 2024). […]
EXCEPT WHERE INDICATED, THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED ON THIS PAGE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE MADISON TIMES
EXCEPT WHERE INDICATED, THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED ON THIS PAGE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE MADISON TIMES
Literacy Matters: State Representative Dora Drake
By Alexis Benton School is in session for kids across Wisconsin. The start of a new school year is exciting for children, but it is important to remember that not every child has the same education opportunities. The enrollment of Milwaukee Public Schools is comprised of 50% Black children and 28% Hispanic children according to […]
X Prize Wants to Increase the Adult Literacy Rate in Milwaukee
By Ana Martinez-Ortiz In the United States alone, there are 36 million low literate adults. Of that, only 5 percent have access to education which leaves a remaining 34 million left to their own devices. In this case, devices as in their mobile phones, tablets or computers. Since the conception of the smartphone, app developers […]
The Surprising Lack Of Data About Literacy
Educators’ Understanding Is Nuanced And Information-Deprived by Scott Gordon In many ways, campaigns to improve literacy are more sophisticated than ever. Nonprofits, K-12 and adult continuing educational systems, and government agencies have gone far beyond a literate-illiterate dichotomy in their day-to-day work, expanding the scope of literacy and applying programs focused on issues like health […]
Many Hurdles Remain To Earn High School Diploma As Adult
Literacy In Wisconsin: Fear Often Keeps Adults From Seeking Help by Erika Janik Most people complete high school the traditional way by earning a high school diploma. But for others, completing high school involves passing a GED, or General Educational Development, test. Passing the test isn’t the first hurdle for many adults, however. “People are […]
Understanding Health Care System Remains A Major Challenge For Many Americans
Literacy In Wisconsin: Health Literacy Programs Seek To Educate Patients And Doctors by Erika Janik A woman checks “no” to every question on an intake form in a doctor’s office because she doesn’t understand what’s being asked. An elderly man takes four times the recommended dosage of his medication because he can’t read the label. […]
Literacy Problems Called A ‘Silent Crisis’ In Wisconsin
1.5 Million Adults In Wisconsin Qualify For Literacy Services by Erika Janik Wisconsinites struggling with various literacy skills is a “silent crisis,” according to a local literacy expert. Michele Erikson, the executive director of Wisconsin Literacy Inc., a coalition of 77 literacy agencies throughout Wisconsin that strives to make learning to read, write and interpret […]
1,200 Tutors in 12 Weeks Campaign: Volunteers Are Needed Throughout Wisconsin
Madison, Wis.—Literacy Network, along with Wisconsin Literacy, kicks off the 12th Annual 1200 Tutors in 12 Weeks campaign on International Literacy Day, Sept. 8, 2015. The campaign, supported by Alliant Energy Foundation, American Family Insurance, the Green Bay Packers, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, and individual donations, aims to recruit 1,200 new volunteer literacy tutors […]